Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

If you’ve a young family and want a car that’s fun to drive, easy to park, light on fuel and decent on practicality, then the B-Max is worth a look.

We can see the appeal of the diesel’s impressive economy and strong pulling power, but it’s also an expensive option, so you’ll need to do plenty of miles to warrant the premium over the petrols.

Don’t be put off by the 99bhp 1.0 petrol’s puny capacity. This engine is turbocharged and uses the latest electronics to deliver the punch of a 1.6. Yet, when you take it easy, Ford says it’ll return 55mpg. That said, the 1.4 petrol is probably your best bet, because it’s nippy enough and keeps the price down.

It’s best to avoid the entry trim and go for the mid-range Zetec, which gives you features including alloy wheels, air conditioning, a DAB radio, a heated windscreen, four electric windows, USB connectivity and Bluetooth.

Bear in mind that Ford dealers are always keen to sweeten the deal, so haggle hard.